Best Matt McConkey Podcasts (2025)

1
5-year Plan for Successfully Implementing Project Based Learning | E240 40:19

Play Pause

14h ago40:19

40:19

In this episode, Ryan Steuer of Magnify Learning details a five-year implementation plan for launching a Project-Based Learning (PBL) movement in a large district, specifically focusing on 13 middle schools. While the example is niche, the process is designed to be customizable and scalable for districts of any size. The episode emphasizes the impo…

1
Empowering Future Leaders: The Weight Behind the Spear With Dr. Josh McConkey | E239 27:44

10d ago27:44

27:44

In this conversation, Dr. Josh McConkey discusses the importance of leadership in education, emphasizing the need for accountability, resilience, and mentoring in preparing youth for the future. He shares insights from his experiences in the military and healthcare, highlighting the significance of empowering teachers and students alike. The discus…

1
Optimism Is Radical: Leading Change with Jill Reilly | E238 57:42

7d ago57:42

57:42

In this episode, Ryan Steuer sits down with Jill Reilly, author of the book, "10 Permissions." Jill shares her journey and insights on navigating profound change, both personally and within organizations, offering a fresh perspective for school leaders looking to innovate. This conversation is particularly relevant for school and district administr…

1
A District Wide Project Based Learning Movement With Ashley Curtin | E237 40:55

22d ago40:55

40:55

Today on the PBL Simplified for Administrators podcast we have Ashley Curtin. Ashley is a district coach in Calvert County Maryland working with PBL teachers. The PBL initiative started in social studies to increase engagement and has spread across the district. Ashley is now under Career Technical Education (CTE) funding and is building relationsh…

1
How to Increase Student Engagement School-Wide | E236 22:02

29d ago22:02

22:02

Key Moves to Increase Student Engagement: Appreciate Teachers' "Why" and Connect to Your Vision: ◦ Leaders should share their vision often and loudly, connecting it with teachers' personal "why". Your teachers look to you for vision. Celebrate Small Wins Loudly and Often: ◦ Publicly acknowledge positive things you see happening in classrooms. ◦ Lea…

1
The Future of Education: Integrating Technology and Hands-On Learning With Vanessa Myers | E235 30:10

1M ago30:10

30:10

In this episode of PBL Simplified, host Ryan Steuer interviews Vanessa Myers, Senior Director of Education and Workforce Development at Interplay Learning. They discuss the transformative power of Project Based Learning (PBL) in vocational education, particularly through the integration of virtual reality (VR) technology. Vanessa shares personal st…

1
Top Three Mistakes School Leaders Make in PBL | E234 19:44

1M ago19:44

19:44

In this episode, Ryan Steuer discusses the importance of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and outlines three common mistakes that leaders make when implementing PBL in schools. He emphasizes the need to start with the 'why' of PBL, the significance of cultural change, and the importance of empowering teachers rather than controlling them. Through perso…

1
Emotional Intelligence in Education: A New Approach With Doug Noll | E233 38:36

2M ago38:36

38:36

In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast, host Ryan Steuer talks with Doug Noll, a former trial lawyer turned peacemaker, to discuss effective strategies for de-escalating conflicts with angry parents, students, and teachers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding emotions in conflict resolution, introducing the concept of…

1
Turn Grant Funding into PBL Success | E232 21:21

2M ago21:21

21:21

In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan Steuer discusses how district leaders can effectively use grant funds to establish a sustainable project-based learning (PBL) culture that extends beyond the life of the grant. He emphasizes the importance of investing in people rather than programs, the necessity of professional development and c…

1
Becoming Epic: A Leadership Journey with Dr. Matt Kutz | E231 35:59

2M ago35:59

35:59

In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, host Ryan Steuer talks with leadership expert Matt Kutz to discuss the essence of leadership, the importance of inspiration, and the framework outlined in Kutz's upcoming book, Becoming Epic. They explore the concepts of excellence, perception, and the need for leaders to recharge and find inspiration …

1
Building Sustainable PBL in Your School | E230 23:07

2M ago23:07

23:07

In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast, Ryan Steuer discusses the importance of making project-based learning (PBL) sustainable within school cultures. He outlines a three-year model for implementing PBL that emphasizes leadership, teacher training, and community involvement. Through real-life examples, he illustrates how PBL can transform s…

1
The Power of Meditation for Busy School Leaders With Jeff Patterson | E229 36:35

3M ago36:35

36:35

Jeff Patterson has been practicing martial arts for 36 years. He has trained with masters from seven countries and has achieved a black belt equivalency in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Eskrima, Muay Thai, Kenpō, Tai Chi, and Qigong. Patterson believes in the power of meditative arts to enhance life experiences. Why Meditation for Educational Leaders? Educa…

1
Empowering Education Through Community Partnerships | E228 14:34

3M ago14:34

14:34

In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast, host Ryan Steuer discusses the critical role of community partners in Project Based Learning (PBL) for school administrators. He outlines strategies for identifying, engaging, and building relationships with community partners to enhance student learning and real-world applicability. The conversation e…

1
Data Visualization for PBL Administrators With Jon Schwabish | E227 35:51

3M ago35:51

35:51

Episode Summary: This episode features Jon Schwabish, an economist and data visualization expert, who discusses how school administrators can use data visualization to better understand and communicate data to improve their schools. Key Takeaways: Data visualization can help school administrators quickly understand their data and make better decisi…

1
How Do We Help You Love Your Job Every Day? | E226 20:48

4M ago20:48

20:48

In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, host Ryan Steuer discusses the transformative power of Project Based Learning (PBL) in schools. He shares insights on how educators can empower themselves and their teams to create thriving educational environments. Through the success story of principal Cynthia Bruno, listeners learn about the impact …

1
AND JUST LIKE MATT is moving to GARBAGE WORLD 2:30

4M ago2:30

2:30

Big news: AND JUST LIKE MATT is moving to GARBAGE WORLD, the platform of our dear friends Casey Wilson & Danielle Schneider’s podcast BITCH SESH. If you’re not a Garbage World member yet, wtf are you even doing? Head over to www.caseyanddaniellesgarbageworld.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Emotional Intelligence and Project Based Learning With Matt Taylor | E225 38:22

4M ago38:22

38:22

This episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast features guest Matt Taylor, who leads the Noble Story Group, a consulting firm that focuses on emotional intelligence-based leadership development in education and nonprofits. Matt’s “Why” He had an epiphany while observing both urban district schools and charter schools that they either had teachers with …

1
How to Help Your Teachers Love Teaching Again | E224 18:07

5M ago18:07

18:07

This episode focuses on practical ways administrators can address teacher burnout and reignite their passion for teaching. Burnout is characterized by a disconnect from the joy of teaching, often stemming from a lack of autonomy and meaningful teaching opportunities. Project Based learning (PBL) is presented as a way to combat teacher burnout by fo…

1
Transforming Self-Talk for Effective Leadership With Marianne Renner | E223 34:13

5M ago34:13

34:13

In this episode, Ryan Steuer interviews leadership coach Marianne Renner about her new book, Self Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself That Hold You Back. They discuss the importance of self-talk in leadership, the impact of personal narratives on emotional well-being, and practical strategies for transforming negative self-talk into empowering narra…

1
The Power of Professional Learning Communities in PBL With Dr. Chad Dumas | E222 39:54

6M ago39:54

39:54

In this episode of the PBL Simplified for Administrators podcast, host Ryan Steuer welcomes back Dr. Chad Dumas to discuss the importance of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in enhancing Project Based Learning (PBL) environments. They explore the mindset and culture necessary for effective PLCs, the role of teacher team leaders, and strateg…

1
From Curiosity to Connection: Building Positive School Cultures with Gabriele Nicolet | E221 33:16

6M ago33:16

33:16

Key takeaways from this episode: Relationships are paramount in education: The strength of the relationship between teachers and students significantly impacts learning outcomes. Seeing each child: Educators should strive to understand and acknowledge each student's individual needs and experiences. The Importance of Nervous Systems: Educators shou…

1
Why is PBL Good for Kids? | E220 18:36

7M ago18:36

18:36

This episode focuses on the benefits of Project Based Learning (PBL) for K-12 students. It explores how PBL can enhance academic achievement, social-emotional learning (SEL), and future readiness. Key Takeaways: PBL improves academic performance. Studies show that PBL can lead to significant gains in standardized test scores, AP exam scores, and li…

1
Leveraging Social Media to Transform Schools With David Griffith | E219 34:56

7M ago34:56

34:56

This episode of the PBL Simplified podcast features David Griffith, a content creator coach and former middle school teacher with over 1.2 million followers on TikTok. In this episode, Griffith discusses the importance of social media for school leaders and offers practical advice on how to use social media effectively to engage with the community.…

1
What is PBL? | E218 16:45

8M ago16:45

16:45

Episode Summary: This episode explores the definition of Project Based Learning (PBL) from the perspective of three key audiences: students, teachers, and administrators. Host Ryan Steuer emphasizes the importance of tailoring the explanation of PBL to resonate with each group, highlighting the unique benefits they experience through its implementa…

1
Turn Your School Around With Project Based Learning - Ashley Green | E217 26:14

8M ago26:14

26:14

Ashley Green is a versatile educator with 19 years of experience as a language arts teacher, curriculum coordinator, and principal. She is the owner of Green Tree Educational Solutions, a consulting agency in Mississippi dedicated to helping individuals and organizations achieve their full potential. She also serves as an adjunct professor, trainin…

1
How to Gain Momentum for Project-Based Learning in 2025 | E216 17:35

9M ago17:35

17:35

Podcast Summary: This episode provides three practical strategies for school administrators to gain momentum for project-based learning (PBL) in their schools. The three strategies are: Get started today. This means taking steps like visiting schools with successful PBL programs, engaging in book studies about PBL, or listening to podcasts on PBL f…

1
The One Page Playbook to Transform Your Faculty Meetings | E215 15:22

9M ago15:22

15:22

Transform your faculty meetings into the highlight of the semester! Imagine your teachers leaving every session not only informed but inspired and ready to implement Project Based Learning in their classrooms. This episode will equip you with the tools to revolutionize your meetings by shifting away from mundane announcements and passive profession…

1
Unlocking Success: Transforming Your Life Through Habit Stacking | E214 15:45

9M ago15:45

15:45

What if the key to unlocking unparalleled success lies in the tiny, everyday habits we often overlook? Uncover the transformative potential of habit stacking through insights drawn from James Clear's "Atomic Habits" and BJ Fogg's "Tiny Habits." This episode will equip you with practical strategies for seamlessly integrating new habits into your rou…

1
Mastering Intentional Goal-Setting for Success in 2025 | E213 17:38

9M ago17:38

17:38

What if you could harness the power of strategic goal-setting to revolutionize your 2025? Join us as we unlock secrets to mastering intentional goals, setting you up for success well before the year even begins. We’re unveiling strategies that go beyond the mundane, helping you craft goals with purpose and vision. Our upcoming 2025 podcast offering…

1
Empowering Students and Building Confidence Through Martial Arts: PBL and SEL | E212 36:14

10M ago36:14

36:14

Former educator Matt Eyler shares his inspiring journey from the classroom to the dojo, revealing how martial arts became a beacon of hope and resilience during the turbulent times of the COVID pandemic. In our conversation, Matt opens up about his unique teaching approach, which intertwines character education and self-regulation with martial arts…

1
Five Guaranteed Community Partners for Project Based Learning | E211 18:21

10M ago18:21

18:21

Unlock the secrets to enhancing your Project Based Learning (PBL) experience with five guaranteed community partners eager to support educators everywhere. From the bustling corridors of the Indianapolis Children's Museum to the nurturing environments of local martial arts studios, discover how these partners can transform your curriculum. We'll sh…

1
Embracing Gratitude and Purpose in Education: PBL and SEL Connection | E210 8:38

10M ago8:38

8:38

Unlock the transformative power of gratitude and purpose in your educational journey with our latest episode! Discover how embracing thankfulness can revolutionize your classroom experience, as we explore the profound impact of recognizing and celebrating student achievements. You'll learn actionable strategies to identify and acknowledge student s…

1
Unlocking Student Potential: Revolutionizing Education with Active Learning and PBL | E209 31:41

10M ago31:41

31:41

What if the key to unlocking student potential lies in transforming traditional teaching methods? We explore this question with the innovator, Lauran Kerr-Heraly, Ph.D., from Houston Community College, who is revolutionizing classrooms through active learning, Project Based Learning (PBL), and gamification. Lauran shares her approaches that bring h…

1
Rethinking College Choice: Embracing Values Over Rankings | E208 33:51

10M ago33:51

33:51

Join us for an eye-opening episode where Jared and Jen, the dynamic co-founders of Forget the Rankings, challenge the traditional perceptions of college selection. They push back against the prestige-driven mindset, urging us to reconsider what truly matters in the college search. Through their engaging conversation, you'll learn about a values-bas…

1
Friend is a Verb with Brian Sims 1:00:43

10M ago1:00:43

1:00:43

WELLLLLL that is a wrap on Homophilia, at least for now. But before we go, we want you to hear this conversation with activist/CEO/Pennsylvania State Rep Brian Sims. We’re all processing the news from this week, and Brian gets real about what’s at stake, what’s ahead, and what we can do. Also: meeting a future husband at the P-Town High Tea, The Re…

1
Unlocking College Success: The Power of Project-Based Learning | E207 21:25

11M ago21:25

21:25

Unlock the full potential of Project Based Learning (PBL) and transform the way students prepare for college. Discover how PBL not only equips learners with essential skills like collaboration and self-awareness but also empowers them to navigate the challenges of university life with confidence. Join us as Ryan Steuer, CIO of Magnify Learning, sha…

1
Three Types of Teachers Whose Lives are Transformed by Project Based Learning | E206 19:56

11M ago19:56

19:56

What if transforming the educational landscape was simpler than we thought? Drawing from my extensive decade-long journey with PBL, this episode offers insights into how educators can harness this methodology to not only engage their students more effectively but also invigorate their own teaching practices. We explore how PBL addresses educational…

1
Gateway Draculas with Drew Droege 43:00

11M ago43:00

43:00

One of our favorite human beings and most beloved guests Drew Droege takes a break from Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors to talk about working with Luca Guadagnino and Daniel Craig in the upcoming Queer, plus: flake culture in San Diego, important vampires and villains in The Lost Boys, Dark Shadows, and Sleepaway Camp, relating to the Final Girl, our …

1
Three Types of Learners Whose Lives are Transformed by Project Based Learning | E205 17:47

11M ago17:47

17:47

Can Project Based Learning (PBL) truly change the trajectory of a student's life? Join Ryan Steuer, CIO of Magnify Learning as we explore the answer through inspiring stories on the PBL Simplified Podcast. Meet Skyler, whose journey from disengagement to discovery highlights the profound impact PBL can have on students. Raised in a low socioeconomi…

1
The Frankiessance with Frankie Grande 39:56

11M ago39:56

39:56

The American, no, GLOBAL treasure joins us from rural Pennsylvania where he is starring as Dr. Frank in The Rocky Horror Show to talk Sunset Blvd., Mamma Mia, the Charli XCX Sweat Tour, the Sympathy is a Knife remix, Halloween Horror Nights done right, kicking Lunesta, getting sober, learning from a throuple, meeting a man on line dance night and m…

1
7 Steps to Implementing PBL at Your School | E204 21:17

11M ago21:17

21:17

Transform education by mastering the art of Project Based Learning (PBL) with us. Discover how to effectively integrate PBL into your school's educational framework by addressing critical questions every leader should consider. We will unveil the power of community support through the PBL Movement online community, offering you access to virtual an…